Indoor Wood Burner - An Eco-Friendly Alternative
Indoor wood burning produces fine particle pollution as well as other air pollutants such as carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds. These pollutants can cause irritation to the lungs and trigger other health issues.
Research has previously demonstrated that frequent use of fireplaces or wood-burning stoves indoors can increase the risk of lung cancer. However these findings were based on self-reported frequency of use, and were not medically verified.
Low Carbon Alternative to Carbon Neutral
You might be looking for an alternative that is green if you love the look of a log stove but are worried about the health risks. There are a variety of alternatives that won't result in an DEFRA fine. One such option is a bioethanol fire that burns a liquid fuel that is made from renewable sources and releases much fewer particulates than wood.
Bioethanol is a fantastic option for those who wish to keep their existing wood stove, but simply change the fuel. It's produced from recycled wood and plant waste So you can feel good about your purchase!
You can also opt for an Eco Design wood burning stove. They comply with the latest regulations and achieve high efficiency, which results in lower emissions. They are also more durable and more user-friendly than older models.
A brand new Eco Design Stove would not only be an excellent investment for your home but also for the planet. Be aware that the emissions from wood combustion are a major source of air pollution and, in turn, lead to climate change. There are ways to reduce the impact of your stove. These include using dry, clean fuel and cleaning it regularly, as well as opening windows while burning wood.
Switching to an electric stove is another option to reduce your impact on the environment. They are also more energy efficient and consume a third less electricity than open fires. They're also easier to set up as there is no chimney or flue required and can be powered with a standard 3-pin plug.
There are a variety of other eco-friendly log burners on the market including eco briquettes, which have been made from recycled wood and are carbon neutral. Pellet stoves are also an option if you want to go green. They are extremely efficient and can be used for a range of biomass fuels. Their automatic fuel feeding and air supply regulation allows for exceptionally efficient combustion, minimising emissions.
Some people may be concerned about the health risks of a fireplace with wood particularly when they hear that it may release particles into the air. It is important to know that recent studies indicate that other activities in the home such as cooking can release higher levels of PM10 and PM2.5 into the air.
Easy to Clean
Wood burning stoves can give an authentic, rustic feel to your home. However, it is easy to overlook the need for regular maintenance and cleaning. The ash that adheres to the grates as well as the creosote that is formed during firing can turn a fireplace or stove from the traditional holiday-card image of a soft smoke billowing out into a raging inferno.
Wood stoves are best made with dried, seasoned wood. If you burn unseasoned, unseasoned, or overly wet logs not only will the fire have trouble starting and burning clean but also the amount of pollutants released into the air increases dramatically. Wood smoke is a source of fine particle pollution and volatile organic compounds carbon monoxide and other hazardous air pollutants, such as benzene. These pollutants are especially harmful to older adults, children and those suffering from lung diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer.
Most modern wood stoves feature a removable ash pan that collects ash and debris from the grates. It is easy to remove the pan and empty it into a Ash bucket. It's important to keep in mind that ashes still contain embers and must be completely cooled before disposal.
To avoid the buildup of creosote, wash your stove regularly and use a fire retardant cleaner, such as a special stove cleaning spray or a vinegar-based mixture. You can also make use of the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner, or dry rag. Avoid using a rag that is wet as it can cause rust.
It's a good idea to bring in wood that has been dried and seasoned outdoors for at least one year prior to moving it inside. A stack of well-seasoned, kiln dried wood will not just save you time and effort, but also money because it is ready to burn and generating more heat. A regular supply of tinder can aid in keeping your fire going at a faster pace and reduce the amount of soot. If your area is a smoking area, you should be vigilant about maintaining your chimney and stove in good working order to avoid any penalties.
Savings on Money
With energy prices rising this year, and more volatility anticipated wood stoves are an appealing alternative to conventional fuel sources. A wood burner that is well-maintained can lower the energy cost significantly in comparison to gas or electricity.
In addition to reducing heating expenses, a wood-burning fireplace insert can also provide additional financial advantages. Modern inserts are more efficient than traditional wood-burning stoves and produce more heat with less fuel. They can generate up to three-times as much heat as traditional wood burning fireplaces, allowing homeowners more money to spend in their pockets.
It is important to keep in mind that wood heating has some "non-monetary" expenses. This includes the work involved in loading the stove, starting fires, and clearing the ashes. In addition, if you decide to cut and split your logs on your own this process can be lengthy and strenuous.
Another possibility is the need for a proper place to store and dry the logs. Wet, unseasoned or green logs can cause a lot of smoke when they're burned. They also can create harmful deposits that build up in the chimney and stove. It is essential to follow the right procedures for stacking and storing logs to ensure that they are always dry and only seasoned logs are used in your stove.
It is also essential to maintain and sweep your chimney regularly to prevent the clogging. It is possible to do this by hiring an expert to sweep your chimney, or by following some simple maintenance tips. For example, make sure that you clean the stove after every fire and sweep it prior to using it the first time of the season.
Finally, homeowners who decide to switch to wood-burning stoves should be sure to consider installation and purchase costs. While they are currently less expensive than replacing an older gas boiler but these costs can add up.
Adds Style
An indoor wood burner can be an ideal focal point for an interior setting, especially when it's decorated with the right décor. A wood-burning stove in the kitchen, living room or dining area instantly adds warmth and comfort to the space. With a variety of styles from traditional to modern, there's sure to be one that fits perfectly with the style of your home.
A wood-burning stove can add character and history to any room. The sound and sight of a real flame can instantly boost your mood, particularly during the colder months.
A log burner isn't only a viable option for your home, but it can help you save money on your energy costs. The trend of replacing open fires with low-emission wood burning that are eco-friendly is a great method to create a cozy ambience without sacrificing heating efficiency.
It's important to consider the heat capacity of the stove in relation to the size of your house and insulation levels. The manufacturers of the stove will provide you with guidelines to help you select the best size stove for your home. This is highly recommended when you want to make the most on your investment.
Stoves with integrated log storage is ideal for modern homes. It offers a tidy clean appearance and guarantees that you have plenty of wood on hand. Stoves Fireplaces & Stoves are an excellent alternative for homes with small spaces. Logs can be stored nearby without worrying about space or safety.
A wood-burning stove for indoor use is also a great choice for a farmhouse style interior, and it is possible to pair it with wooden beams and panelled walls to create a classic rustic aesthetic. This Farringdon stove comes from Arada Stoves is available in an attractive Spice finish, adds an element of style and color into a modern living room.
With a wood-burning stove, the whole family can come together and spend time with friends in the midst of a real flame. This is not only an excellent way to increase quality time as well, but it can help children and adults switch off from their screens and concentrate on one another instead.